McCann Heating & Cooling

Cooling

Over the past two decades air conditioning has become a standard feature in most homes in Eastern Canada and McCann Heating & Cooling has witnessed this trend unfold in the greater Napanee and Kingston areas. McCann’s summer cooling business is now as big, or bigger, than the winter heating season! Let’s explore some cooling options!

Our Air Conditioners & Heat Pumps

At McCann Heating & Cooling, we know that finding the right cooling system for your home can be a big decision. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here, we break down the basic characteristics of air conditioners and heat pumps, highlighting their pros and cons. We’ll also discuss the differences between central ducted units and ductless systems to help you make an informed choice.

Air Conditioners

Air conditioners are the cooling standard for most of Ontario. They are typically paired with a furnace and a duct system which distributes the cool air throughout the home. A gas furnace paired with an efficient air conditioner is the most cost-effective solution for heating and cooling most homes. Popular choices for this type of system are made by Lennox and Trane, as they are reliable, efficient, and cost-effective!

Pros:

Effective Cooling: Delivers powerful cooling, quickly reducing indoor temperatures even on the hottest days.
Energy Efficient: Modern models offer high energy efficiency, especially when paired with a smart thermostat.
Long Lifespan: Well-maintained units can last 10-15 years or more.

Cons:

Cooling Only: Air conditioners only provide cooling, so you’ll need a separate heating system for the winter months.
Higher Initial Cost for Energy-Efficient Models: Although they save on energy bills, high-efficiency units may have a higher upfront cost.
Requires Ductwork: Central air conditioners require ductwork, which may not be ideal for homes without an existing system.

Heat Pumps

Heat Pumps are growing in popularity every year. Some of this was spurred by government initiatives to reduce carbon fuel consumption, but much of this growth has been driven by the tremendous improvements in the heat pump technology. Heat pumps can provide cooling throughout the cooling season, AND heat through most of the winter. So they can be a great choice to meet your home cooling needs. Heat pumps can be paired with a furnace in a standard configuration, or they can be installed as a stand-alone ductless unit. Ductless systems are typically installed in homes with in-floor heating, in homes with electric baseboards (and no duct system), or to cool rooms that are not well connected to a home’s main cooling system. McCann Heating & Cooling installs and services all the major brands, but 90+% of our sales are Lennox and Trane, due to their reliability, cost-effectiveness, technical prowess, and after-sales support for parts and warranty. All things considered, they are the smart choice!

Pros:

Year-Round Comfort: Offers both heating and cooling, making it a versatile all-in-one system.
Energy Efficient: Highly efficient, especially in moderate climates, as they transfer heat rather than generate it.
Eco-Friendly: Lower energy consumption reduces your carbon footprint.

Cons:

Less Effective in Extreme Cold: May struggle to provide sufficient heat in very cold temperatures without a supplemental heat source.
Higher Upfront Cost: Typically more expensive to install than a traditional air conditioner but can save money in the long run.
Regular Maintenance Required: Needs regular servicing to maintain efficiency and performance.

Ground Source Heat Pumps

Ground Source Heat Pumps are a special breed! Most heat pumps rely on above-ground air-to-air energy transfer, but ground source heat pumps transfer the energy from the ground, usually using a water/glycol loop. These units are more expensive to install, however they are extremely efficient for heating, cooling, and hot water generation, and they have a long life expectancy. They are the greenest option available! This is a specialized field and McCann offers Evolve Thermal equipment in this area. Evolve Thermal personnel even assist with the in-field energy assessment to ensure optimal energy efficiency!

Central Ducted Units vs. Ductless Systems

Central Ducted Units

Central air conditioners and heat pumps often use a ducted system, where air is cooled (or heated) in a central unit and distributed throughout the home via ducts.

Pros:

Even Cooling: Provides consistent temperature throughout the entire home.
Hidden Installation: The unit is installed outside, and ductwork is hidden within walls, ceilings, or floors.
Compatible with Smart Thermostats: Works well with smart home systems for improved efficiency and control.

Cons:

Requires Existing Ductwork: Installation can be costly if your home does not have existing ducts.
Potential for Air Leaks: Leaky ducts can reduce efficiency and increase energy costs.
Higher Installation Costs: The process of installing or replacing ductwork can be more expensive and time-consuming.

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

Ductless mini-splits consist of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units. They provide cooling (and heating, in the case of heat pump models) directly to specific rooms or zones.

Pros:

Flexible Zoning: Offers targeted cooling to individual rooms, allowing different temperatures in different areas.
Easy Installation: No need for ductwork, making installation simpler and less invasive.
Energy Efficient: Reduces energy loss associated with ductwork and provides efficient cooling.

Cons:

Higher Unit Costs: Each indoor unit can be more expensive compared to a single central air system.
Visible Indoor Units: Indoor air handlers are mounted on walls, which might not be aesthetically pleasing for some homeowners.
Requires Multiple Units for Larger Homes: Larger homes may need several indoor units, increasing the overall cost.

Installation

A typical home comfort system has two main components: an indoor unit (like a furnace or air handler) and an outdoor unit (your air conditioner). The air conditioner is responsible for cooling the air outside your home and sending it to the indoor unit, where it circulates through your home to provide cool, refreshing air. For the best performance, the indoor and outdoor units must be properly matched. When an air conditioner is paired with a compatible furnace or air handler, you get maximum efficiency, reliable performance, and a longer system life. This pairing is key to keeping your home at the perfect temperature while minimizing energy use.

Our installation process is thorough and meticulous to ensure your new cooling system performs at its best from day one. We start by safely removing your old system, disposing of it responsibly to make room for your new unit. Next, we install the new air conditioner and ensure it’s perfectly matched with your indoor unit for optimal performance. We fine-tune the settings to maximize efficiency, ensuring your system operates smoothly and effectively right from the start. Once the installation is complete, we’ll take the time to walk you through the operation of your new system. We want you to feel confident using it and to understand how to get the most out of it. Finally, we make sure your space is cleaner than when we arrived. We believe in leaving your home spotless, so you can immediately enjoy your new, comfortable environment without any extra hassle.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is the key to keeping your cooling system running efficiently and prolonging its lifespan. At McCann, we offer annual maintenance services that include comprehensive system cleanings, performance checks, and fine-tuning to ensure everything is operating at its best. For those seeking extra peace of mind, our Guardian Plan offers enhanced coverage and protection. These check-ups help mitigate potential breakdowns, maximize energy efficiency, and ensure continued warranty coverage.

Need a Consultation?

We Provide Free In-Home Consultations!

Contact us today at (613) 354-5512 to schedule a free in-home consultation. Let us help you find the right heating and cooling solution for your home.